Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipe Collection
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars, a perfect blend of spices and fruits that evokes the essence of the holiday season.
These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars bring together the cozy flavors of winter spices and dried fruits, making them an excellent treat for gatherings or a sweet snack on chilly days.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- A delightful fusion of spiced fruit flavors
- Perfectly chewy texture with a hint of warmth
- Great for sharing during festive occasions
The Perfect Holiday Treat
As the holiday season approaches, many of us seek out comforting recipes that evoke warmth and joy. Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars perfectly capture the essence of this time of year, combining the rich flavors of dried fruits with aromatic spices. These bars are not just a dessert; they embody the spirit of sharing and festivity, making them an ideal addition to any holiday gathering.
Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and almond flour, these bars offer a hearty texture that satisfies both the sweet tooth and the desire for nutritious snacks. Their chewy consistency, enhanced by the natural sweetness of honey or maple syrup, makes them a delightful treat for all ages. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack or a post-dinner dessert, these bars are sure to impress.
Easy to Make and Customize
One of the best aspects of Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars is their ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch to enjoy or share. The base of the bars comes together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable; feel free to swap in your favorite dried fruits or nuts to tailor the bars to your taste.
The addition of a mulled wine glaze takes these bars to a whole new level. Not only does it add a beautiful shine, but the subtle flavors of the glaze enhance the overall experience, making each bite a luxurious indulgence. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, cranberry juice works just as well, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats.
Serve and Share
These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are perfect for sharing at holiday parties or family gatherings. Their portable nature makes them an excellent choice for potlucks, as they can be cut into squares and easily transported. Set them out on a festive platter, and watch as they quickly disappear, delighting guests with their enticing aroma and delicious flavor.
Additionally, consider packaging these bars as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and neighbors. A simple box tied with a ribbon can turn these delightful treats into a heartfelt present. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with others, these bars are a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, figs, and raisins)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp mulled wine (or cranberry juice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix the ingredients well and prepare for baking!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, spices, and salt.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the melted butter and honey (or maple syrup) until well combined. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts if using.
Bake the Bars
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Glaze
While the bars are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, mulled wine, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Cool and Glaze
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before drizzling with the glaze. Cut into squares and serve.
Enjoy your delicious Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars!
Storage Tips
To keep your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can be kept for up to three months.
Before serving frozen bars, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. This will restore their chewy texture and flavors, making them just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.
Pairing Suggestions
These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced cider or a rich cup of hot cocoa, making them a delightful addition to your holiday beverage offerings. For an adult twist, serve them alongside a glass of mulled wine to enhance the experience and create a cohesive flavor profile.
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider pairing the bars with a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or chai, which can complement the warm spices beautifully. This combination not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?
Fresh fruit will add moisture and may alter the texture; it's best to stick with dried fruit for this recipe.
→ How can I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour.
→ Is there a vegan option for the glaze?
You can substitute the honey with maple syrup to make the glaze vegan-friendly.
Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars, a perfect blend of spices and fruits that evokes the essence of the holiday season.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Seasonal Recipe Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, figs, and raisins)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp mulled wine (or cranberry juice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, spices, and salt.
Stir in the melted butter and honey (or maple syrup) until well combined. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts if using.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
While the bars are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, mulled wine, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before drizzling with the glaze. Cut into squares and serve.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g